Definition of a successful life

Couple of weeks ago I had the opportunity to nip back to my native Finland for a good proper ‘Släkt Fest’ – Family Party, as my uncle, now the oldest of all my relatives – turned an impressive 80 years old. In his time he has fought cancer twice, most recently only this year, yet still managed to dust himself off and get an all clear, defying doctors and history to become the first Weckström male to reach such an impressive age. It was a wonderful celebration of his life and all our time together, young and old and my cousin Sonja Weckström read a most wonderful poem I cannot help, but quote:

Definition of a successful life

To laugh often and much,
to win respect of intelligent people
and the affection of children;
to earn the appreciation of honest critics
and endure the betrayal of false friends;
to appreciate beauty, to find the best in others;
to leave the world a bit better,
whether by a healthy child,
a garden patch or a redeemed social condition;
to know even one life has breathed easier
because you have lived.

By Ralph Waldo Emerson

and with many thanks to Sonja and all my folks for such a wonderful day together!